Expansion of Buddhism: Reasons & Factors Analysis
Buddhism expanded due to its simple teachings, rejection of the caste system, active missionary work, and use of regional languages like Prakrit that the common people understood.
Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part I
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2009
Evidence Source
Link ↗The reason included in the expansion of Buddhism:
1. The simplicity of religion
2. Special appeal towards Dalits
3. Missionary concept of religion
4. Regional language
5. The soundness of Vedic spirit by PhilosophersSelect the correct code:
[U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2009]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
Buddhism spread rapidly because it functioned as a socio-religious reform movement that addressed the limitations of the existing Brahminical order.
Authentic Source Evidence
NCERT highlights that the use of Pali and Prakrit (people's languages) instead of Sanskrit, along with the rejection of the caste hierarchy, made Buddhism accessible. The establishment of the Sangha provided a structured missionary network.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"Why did royal patronage matter for Buddhism?"
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"Buddhism's success was as much a social revolution as it was a spiritual one, offering a dignified alternative to the rigid caste structures of the 6th century BCE."
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